Questions That Lead Us to Transformation

Jesus himself routinely asked people questions that helped them to get in touch with their desires and name it in his presence. He often brought focus and clarity to his interactions with those who were spiritually hungry by asking them, What do you want? What do you want me to do for you? Such questions had the power to elicit deeply honest reflection in the person to whom they were addressed, and opened the way for Christ to lead them into deeper levels of spiritual truth and healing.” 

​~ Ruth Haley Barton, Sacred Rhythms: Arranging Our Lives For Spiritual Transformation

I'm on a journey of learning what it means to engage with Jesus in the midst of everyday life. In this journey, I am discovering that a key to encountering God is to become more aware of my own desires and disappointments.

Deeply honest reflection is a challenge for me. Perhaps it's a challenge for you as well. When we get in touch with our truest desires, it is an act of profound vulnerability. Admitting our deepest longings can be terrifying because it often puts us in a place of disappointment and pain that we have little ability to control. 

Jesus invites us to recognize and name our desires. This invitation is a gift because it frees us from our masks and distractions, and makes space for authentic relationship with God. 

Tears may come. You may unearth deeper pain than you realized was under the surface.

Be strong and courageous, friend. Jesus wants to meet you in the place of your longings. He is ready to lead you to deeper places of restoration and healing.

What are you longing for in this moment? What do you want Jesus to do for you?

May we wake up to our longings, and allow our soul to speak. May we trust that in Jesus' presence there is safety to be truly honest. And as we do, may Jesus meet us, transform us, and fill us anew.